Vari Beaches

Overview

Vari, Attica, is an excellent choice for a beach holiday near Athens. It offers a relaxed Greek atmosphere and lovely shores. Many beaches here boast long sandy stretches and clear waters, inviting you for a swim.

Key beaches include Paralia Varkiza, the main and popular hub. For a more glamorous experience, visit the renowned Astir Beach. Paralia Kavouri offers beautiful scenery and calm seas. Families will enjoy Voula Beach with its suitable conditions for children.

The general vibe at Vari's beaches is a pleasant mix of local leisure and organized areas. The Aegean waters are generally clear and ideal for swimming. While some main beaches can get busy, the coastline also hides quieter spots. Discover more options in our detailed list of beaches in Vari.

FAQ

Is Vari a good place for a beach holiday?

Yes, Vari is considered a good destination for a beach holiday, especially for those looking for a relaxed and authentic Greek atmosphere with beautiful beaches and clear waters. It's also conveniently close to Athens, making it suitable for a combined city and beach vacation.

What are the beaches in Vari like? Are they mostly sandy?

Beaches in and around Vari offer a mix of experiences. Many, like the popular Varkiza Beach, are known for their long sandy stretches and clear waters, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. Some areas might have a rockier landscape, which can be great for snorkeling. You'll find both organized beaches with amenities and more natural, secluded spots.

Paralia Varkiza

Can you swim in the sea at Vari? Is the water clean?

Yes, you can definitely swim in the Aegean Sea at Vari and its surrounding beaches. The water is generally described as clear and even crystal-clear in many spots. Several beaches in the Vari-Voula-Vouliagmeni municipality, including Varkiza Beach, have been awarded the Blue Flag, indicating good water quality and safety.

Paralia Varkiza

Which is the main beach in Vari?

Paralia Varkiza (Varkiza Beach) is considered the main and most popular beach in the Vari area. It's a long, sandy beach offering a combination of organized sections with amenities and free areas.

Paralia Varkiza

Are there organized beaches in Vari with sunbeds and umbrellas?

Yes, many beaches in Vari, particularly the larger ones like Varkiza Beach (specifically Varkiza Resort/Yabanaki), offer organized sections with sunbeds, umbrellas, beach bars, and other amenities for rent. There are also free sections on many beaches if you prefer to bring your own equipment.

Paralia Varkiza

Do you have to pay to get on Varkiza beach?

Varkiza Beach has both free, unexploited sections and an organized section, often referred to as Varkiza Resort or Yabanaki Beach, which has an entrance fee. The fee for the organized part can vary between weekdays and weekends/holidays, and there might be separate charges for sunbeds.

Paralia Varkiza

Is Vari good for families with children?

Yes, Vari and its beaches, such as Varkiza Beach and Voula Beach, are generally considered family-friendly. Many beaches offer shallow, clear waters ideal for children, and some organized sections provide amenities like playgrounds and lifeguards.

Paralia Varkiza

Voula Beach

How do you get to Vari beaches from Athens?

Vari beaches are accessible from Athens city center (approx. 22-26 km) by car, taxi, or public transport. Buses, such as line 122, connect to areas like Varkiza from metro stations like Elliniko.

People Also Ask

When is the best time to visit Vari beaches for good weather?

The best time for swimming and sunbathing at Vari beaches is from June to September when temperatures are warm and the sea is pleasant. Spring (April-May) and early autumn (October) also offer good weather with fewer crowds, and the sea is often still warm enough for swimming.

Are Vari beaches very crowded?

Crowd levels can vary. Popular beaches like Varkiza can get quite crowded, especially during peak summer months (July and August) and on weekends, as they are easily accessible from Athens. However, visiting during shoulder seasons or exploring smaller coves can offer a less crowded experience. Some sources note Varkiza can be less crowded than some central Athens beaches.

Are there quieter, less crowded beaches in or near Vari?

Yes, while main beaches can be busy, the coastline around Vari offers opportunities to find quieter spots. Exploring smaller coves (often called 'limanakia') or less organized beaches, perhaps towards Vouliagmeni or further along the coast, can lead to more secluded swimming areas. Althea Beach is sometimes mentioned as a smaller, charming option.

Althea Beach

What's the vibe like at Vari beaches? Is it more for relaxing or partying?

The beach culture in Vari and the Athens Riviera is generally a mix of relaxed local enjoyment and organized beach services. While some organized beach complexes like Yabanaki at Varkiza can be lively with music, activities, and beach bars, the overall atmosphere in Vari is often described as more laid-back and family-oriented compared to some bustling island party destinations.

Are there places to eat and drink near the beaches in Vari?

Yes, most popular beaches in Vari, especially organized ones like Varkiza Beach, have cafes, beach bars, and tavernas nearby or directly on the beach, offering a range of food and drink options. The town of Varkiza itself also has numerous restaurants and cafes.

Paralia Varkiza

How do Vari beaches compare to other Athens Riviera spots like Glyfada or Vouliagmeni?

Vari offers a more relaxed and arguably more authentic Greek atmosphere compared to the more bustling and upscale Glyfada or the luxurious Vouliagmeni. While all offer beautiful coastlines, Vari (especially Varkiza) is known for its long sandy beaches and a mix of organized and free areas. Glyfada is more of an urban center with beach access, and Vouliagmeni is famed for its high-end Astir Beach and the therapeutic lake.

Glyfada Beach

Vouliagmeni

Astir Beach

Are there water sports available at Vari beaches?

Yes, water sports are available, particularly at the more organized beaches like Varkiza Beach (including Yabanaki Resort). Options often include windsurfing, water skiing, paddleboarding (SUP), and canoeing/kayaking. The Nautical Club of Vari Varkiza also operates in the area.

Paralia Varkiza